Global women’s golfing stars arrive in Adelai

The world’s top female golfers have arrived in Adelaide as South Australia prepares to tee off for the 2019 ISPS HANDA Women’s Australian Golf Open beginning on Thursday.

Among those warming up for the fierce competition on course are world No.1 Ariya Jutanugarn, world ranked No.6 Minjee Lee and 2018 Women’s British Open Champion, Georgia Hall.

Minister for Sport, Recreation and Racing Corey Wingard said the State Government had worked hard to secure the tournament for an additional three years – with an exceptionally strong player field confirming the popularity and value of the event.

“More than 33,200 spectators attended last year’s tournament, and even more are expected to admire the athleticism of these remarkable sportswomen at the Grange Golf Club this year from February 14-17,” said Minister Wingard.

“Tournaments such as these inspire our young athletes by showing them a pathway to the elite level and help boost participation levels at grassroot community clubs.”

“Women’s golf enjoys a very strong following and this event is the perfect opportunity for us to showcase South Australia to potential tourists and sporting fans watching right around the globe.”

“It’s also an exciting time for the Ladies Professional Golf Association field who will compete for a US $1.3 million prize purse.”

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment David Ridgway said Adelaide was well regarded for staging world-class sporting and tourism events, which would generate significant economic flow-on benefits for the State.

“Crowd numbers have consistently broken records over the past three years, delivering more than $20 million to our visitor economy – with significant flow-on benefit to hotels, restaurants, cafes and other retailers,” said Minister Ridgway.

“We are proudly leading the way in supporting women’s sport and are known for hosting exceptional events – I have no doubt that this will be another successful chapter for the Women’s Australian Open.”

Golf Australia Chief Executive Stephen Pitt was excited to see the tournament continue in South Australia.

“It’s our fourth successive year hosting the national championship in Adelaide and the feedback from spectators and players alike has been nothing short of amazing,” Mr Pitt said.

“Each year has been bigger and better than the past and the glowing praise we’ve had on the Adelaide courses we’ve visited has been overwhelming.

“We are sure our magnificent hosts this week at The Grange will only add to the tournament’s rich and globally admired history.”

The ISPS (International Sports Promotion Society) HANDA Women’s Australian Open is Golf Australia’s flagship event for female competitors.

In 2018 South Australia secured the rights to host the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open for 2019, 2020 and 2021 – with next year’s event to be held at the Royal Adelaide Golf Club.

For more information about the 2019 tournament visit www.womensausopen.com

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